Theory question 101
Concern for JudahSection A (Themes from the Old Testament)
(a) Highlight the contributions of Cyrus to the return of the Jews from exile. (b) State three measures a nation can take to prevent God's wrath.
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(a) In his first year, God stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia to fulfil Jeremiah's prophecy (Ezra 1:1).
He issued a written proclamation through his kingdom (Ezra 1:1).
He acknowledged that the God of heaven had given him the kingdoms and charged him to build Him a house in Jerusalem (Ezra 1:2).
He allowed any of God's people to go up to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:3).
He told their neighbours to help them with silver, gold, goods, beasts and freewill offerings (Ezra 1:4).
He returned the temple vessels Nebuchadnezzar had taken, counted out to Sheshbazzar (Ezra 1:7-11).
His decree was later found and confirmed by Darius, with costs paid from the royal treasury (Ezra 6:3-12).
(b) Any three: national repentance and prayer; justice and fairness to all; fighting corruption and immorality; caring for the poor; honest leadership; sincere worship of God.
Use Ezra 1 and 6, then three measures.